The NYE light show at the Burj Khalifa is expected to be a Guinness World Record breaking attempt…

In its place, event organisers Emaar advertised ‘Light Up 2018’, described as a ‘never before seen spectacle’ that uses Downtown’s buildings as a canvas.

And now Brigadier Abdullah Ali Al Ghaith, director of the general department of organisations, protective security and emergency has outlined the reason for the decision, citing safety as the primary reason.

In a statement to Gulf News, the official explained: “Lasers are safer than fireworks. The New Year’s Eve lasers have been places all over Dubai. The aim is to facilitate all simple traffic and ensure flow.”

Few details have been released (it’s being touted as a surprise), but the choreographed show will be displayed across Downtown Dubai’s famous buildings. It is also expected to incorporate water and music performances from the Dubai Fountain.

The New Year’s Eve celebrations will also be live-streamed on Twitter for the second year in a row.

Ahmed Thani Al Matrooshi, managing director of Emaar Properties said: “This year we replace fireworks with a laser show. We wanted to introduce something new to stop using old methods. It will bring about a lot of fun and amusement to the properties and spectators.”

He added: “Emaar seeks to utilise this event to spotlight the Burj Khalifa, the Downtown area and Dubai as an Emirate”.